Veteran Laura Davies leads Vic Open after 1st round

BARWON HEADS, Australia (AP) -- English veteran Laura Davies used a new putting grip and took advantage of calm morning conditions to shoot an 8-under 65 and take a two-stroke lead in the Vic Open, the Ladies European Tour's season-opening tournament.

Five players were tied for second with 67s - Melissa Reid and Holly Clyburn of England, who are sharing a house with Davies this week, Sandra Gal of Germany, Nicole Broch of Denmark and Whitney Hillier of Australia.

Davies, winner of 84 tournaments worldwide, played her opening round on the easier Creek course at the Thirteenth Beach golf links, equaling the course record. The women's tournament is being held in conjunction with a men's…